SUNSET KECAK FIRE DANCE AT ULUWATU

by - 11:43 AM

SUNSET KECAK FIRE DANCE AT ULUWATU

Perched on a cliff overlooking the Indian Ocean is the Uluwatu Temple.  Everyone is headed towards the farthest end where the nightly performance is about to commence.  After a few minutes, a group of bare chested Indonesian men entered as they chant and sway with the rhythm.  Apt for the traditional dance name, “ke-chak” was the only word heard of.  It was non-stop for a chanting of one hour.


SUNSET KECAK FIRE DANCE AT ULUWATU

SUNSET KECAK FIRE DANCE AT ULUWATU

SUNSET KECAK FIRE DANCE AT ULUWATU

The show began in time for sunset.  The natural backdrop makes the performance more dramatic.  Sitting on the ground forming a circle, the drama unfolds.  Prominent characters include two young princes, a demon king, a damsel in distress and a mischievous monkey.


SUNSET KECAK FIRE DANCE AT ULUWATU

We had a good vantage for a seat.  At the topmost center, we could see every movement by the performers and the spectators’ reaction.  I was amazed of the routines and more importantly how they are able to prolong the continuous cantillation.

SUNSET KECAK FIRE DANCE AT ULUWATU

SUNSET KECAK FIRE DANCE AT ULUWATU

The story builds as the backdrop changes in the shifting of natural skies – on hues of orange, blue and eventually turning dark.  It was magical. 

SUNSET KECAK FIRE DANCE AT ULUWATU

SUNSET KECAK FIRE DANCE AT ULUWATU

SUNSET KECAK FIRE DANCE AT ULUWATU


The Kecak dance is performed for dance dramas and the storyline is taken from the epic Ramayana.  The main highlight I should say is the burning of the castle by the white monkey.  The character made the audience get involved as he enters and exit from out of nowhere, thereby surprising spectators.  

SUNSET KECAK FIRE DANCE AT ULUWATU

THIS TRIP IS IN COLLABORATION WITH THE MINISTRY OF TOURISM OF INDONESIA

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